Spurs notebook: Powell vows to be more defensive

Josh Powell has paid his share of dues in the NBA. Now 29, he has played 315 regular-season games for six NBA teams in six seasons. Moreover, he has played in 46 playoff games, including four in the NBA Finals.

He has two NBA championship rings.

So when Powell heard some laughter coming from the Hawks’ bench Wednesday night after he knocked down a 3-pointer right in front of those who were giving him the business, he took umbrage.

Pausing for a few moments before heading back to the defensive end after his long-distance make, he leveled a cold stare at those mocking him, an action he instantly regretted.

“I shouldn’t have done that,” Powell said after Spurs’ practice Thursday. “I’ve already had a talk with Coach (Gregg Popovich) about it. I was wrong for doing it.”

In training camp on a make-good contract, the 6-foot-9 forward from North Carolina State is waging a solid battle for a roster spot. In two preseason games he has made 9 of 10 shots and scored 21 points with nine rebounds. Though his shooting range fits what the club likes from its big men, Powell understands he won’t shoot his way onto the roster.

“I know mostly it will be defense,” he said. “That’s what they stress here. They’ve got guys here who can score and make plays. I’m just trying to fit in and do the best I can on both ends of the floor.”

Parker a true floor general: All-NBA point guard Tony Parker was still crowing Thursday about coaching the Spurs to their 101-99 victory over the visiting Hawks on Wednesday night.

Popovich turned the team over to Parker — who had the night off — after he pestered his coach with advice after Atlanta made things close in the waning seconds.

After the Hawks tied the score at 99, Parker drew up a play for rookie Nando De Colo, who nailed the winning jumper.